Okay, I'll be the first to admit that when the promos for this show first aired on Disney Channel, I wasn't interested. I hadn't particularly enjoyed Fish Hooks, and I figured Gravity Falls would be more of the same. I was so wrong. This show is full to bursting with fantastic and lovable characters, witty humor, great writing, beautiful animation, and mysteries, fantasy, and little Easter eggs around every corner. In addition, there are a few elements that could easily give me nightmares, but which, oddly enough, the kids I babysit find more hilarious than anything. Guess it's the age difference. If you haven't yet, you definitely need to give this show a shot. I know Gravity Falls fans from age two to fifty, and I'd recommend it to anyone.
359 Reviews
Amazingly strange...and funny.
planktonrules27 July 2014
Warning: Spoilers
While I am 50 years old and WAY outside the target audience for this show, my 24 year-old daughter is hooked--so much so that she always insists that I watch "Gravity Falls" with her. And so this is how I came to see the show--and I assume most who have reviewed the show are much younger than I am!
The plot is a lot like the old show "Eerie, Indiana" in that the main characters, who are kids, keep stumbling upon weird cases of the supernatural in this bizarre little town. However, and this is important, unlike "Eerie, Indiana", the characters are far more likable and funny. In particular, Mabel is a hoot--and is among the best things about the show--as is Gruncle Stan. But the others are all quite charming and weird. The writing, therefore, is a very strong suit about the series and, oddly, will appeal to just about all age groups. Sure, it's a show for kids--but oldsters like me will like it too, if they give it a chance. Well worth your time.
The plot is a lot like the old show "Eerie, Indiana" in that the main characters, who are kids, keep stumbling upon weird cases of the supernatural in this bizarre little town. However, and this is important, unlike "Eerie, Indiana", the characters are far more likable and funny. In particular, Mabel is a hoot--and is among the best things about the show--as is Gruncle Stan. But the others are all quite charming and weird. The writing, therefore, is a very strong suit about the series and, oddly, will appeal to just about all age groups. Sure, it's a show for kids--but oldsters like me will like it too, if they give it a chance. Well worth your time.
The True Multiverse of Madness
OnjiMooteDaMarle22 July 2022
Gravity Falls: a Diamond in the Disney Channel Rough
newkidontheblock1 February 2013
There are few things I hate more on television than the Disney Channel. This factory of mediocrity has churned out "gems" like The Suite Life with Zach and Cody and the unfortunately popular Hanna Montana. The Disney Channel is a place for Uncle Walt's successors to push talentless teens out in front of the world. Said teens get a few moments of fame and the Mouse gets another few million.
Why do I make this cynical and cliché critique of the Disney Channel? Because I want to make sure every person who reads this understands how shocked and delighted I am by Gravity Falls.
Gravity Falls takes place in a remote Oregon town of the same name. It features Dipper and Mabel Pines (voiced by Jason Ritter and Kristen Schaal respectively), a pair of twins, staying with their Great Uncle (or Grunkle, a term I believe needs to be used more often) Stan (voiced by show creator Alex Hirsch), a sleazy con-artist that runs a tourist trap called the Mystery Shack. Stan rips off gullible vacationers and townies with "supernatural" attractions and a less than stellar gift shop, overseen by man-child Soos (also voiced by Hirsch) and a down-to-earth slacker teenager Wendy (voiced by Linda Cardellini). It looks like a dull summer for the twins, but they soon find out that there is quite a lot of strange goings on in the little town.
This show has that right mix of humor and adventure every family program ought to have. It's written in a way that can engage people of all ages without pandering to anyone.
The voice actors were chosen masterfully, especially in Mabel Pines. I can't imagine anyone else but Schaal (who also voiced Trixie in Toy Story 3 and plays Mel in Flight of the Conchords)playing the bubbly, effervescent Mabel.
This show also features DIY voice acting from Hirsch, a seemingly common occurrence in animated shows today (Regular Show creator JG Quintel voicing Mordecai and High Five Ghost and Adventure Time creator Pen Ward voicing Lumpy Space Princess as well as a myriad of side characters). Hirsch shows quite a bit of range voicing miserly Stan and obvious Soos.
Gravity Falls is also able juxtapose the supernatural and the normal growing pains of adolescence. On a nearly weekly basis, the observant and intelligent Dipper finds a way to crack a mystery involving gnomes and crystals that change an object's size, yet he can't muster the courage to ask his crush, Wendy, on a date.
There are a lot of TV shows and movies that try so hard to reach that sweet spot where they can appeal to kids, parents and young adults, but fall painfully short. Gravity Falls, though, hits that spot brilliantly.
Like his fellow CalArts alumni Quintel and Ward, Hirsch's product is one made out of love and care and it's made clear in every episode. Most impressively, though, is that it gives me a reason to watch the Disney Channel.
Why do I make this cynical and cliché critique of the Disney Channel? Because I want to make sure every person who reads this understands how shocked and delighted I am by Gravity Falls.
Gravity Falls takes place in a remote Oregon town of the same name. It features Dipper and Mabel Pines (voiced by Jason Ritter and Kristen Schaal respectively), a pair of twins, staying with their Great Uncle (or Grunkle, a term I believe needs to be used more often) Stan (voiced by show creator Alex Hirsch), a sleazy con-artist that runs a tourist trap called the Mystery Shack. Stan rips off gullible vacationers and townies with "supernatural" attractions and a less than stellar gift shop, overseen by man-child Soos (also voiced by Hirsch) and a down-to-earth slacker teenager Wendy (voiced by Linda Cardellini). It looks like a dull summer for the twins, but they soon find out that there is quite a lot of strange goings on in the little town.
This show has that right mix of humor and adventure every family program ought to have. It's written in a way that can engage people of all ages without pandering to anyone.
The voice actors were chosen masterfully, especially in Mabel Pines. I can't imagine anyone else but Schaal (who also voiced Trixie in Toy Story 3 and plays Mel in Flight of the Conchords)playing the bubbly, effervescent Mabel.
This show also features DIY voice acting from Hirsch, a seemingly common occurrence in animated shows today (Regular Show creator JG Quintel voicing Mordecai and High Five Ghost and Adventure Time creator Pen Ward voicing Lumpy Space Princess as well as a myriad of side characters). Hirsch shows quite a bit of range voicing miserly Stan and obvious Soos.
Gravity Falls is also able juxtapose the supernatural and the normal growing pains of adolescence. On a nearly weekly basis, the observant and intelligent Dipper finds a way to crack a mystery involving gnomes and crystals that change an object's size, yet he can't muster the courage to ask his crush, Wendy, on a date.
There are a lot of TV shows and movies that try so hard to reach that sweet spot where they can appeal to kids, parents and young adults, but fall painfully short. Gravity Falls, though, hits that spot brilliantly.
Like his fellow CalArts alumni Quintel and Ward, Hirsch's product is one made out of love and care and it's made clear in every episode. Most impressively, though, is that it gives me a reason to watch the Disney Channel.
Surprisingly Great!
Pictoron12 August 2012
I hate the Disney Channel and what it's become, however I watched this show, and was very entertained! It's not just the humor, but the mixture of surreal situations that connect with the story. Not to mention, THE CHARACTERS! They're all simply fun and the way they get along and interact with each other is great! The setting is pretty cool too, there's always the potential for something completely new and supernatural to occur. I've seen all the episodes so far (all 7) but for the time being, I will continue to keep up with the episodes, and altogether I'm just happy to see that there is still hope for the cartoons of today and the future cartoons.
Great show for broad range of ages
lovlyc12229 March 2013
Very few shows have the capacity to entertain 8 and 10 year old girls a 13 year old boy and their 27 year old woman. Like the Shrek movies it has humor for youngsters and a stealthy adult humor. Definitely has elements from many cartoon predecessors and often times will ground a plot on a real life issue. My little cousins love it and when they found out I was watching gravity falls at home they flipped out. Now when I go visit we will sometimes watch on episode from the DVR. I literally can't stand most Disney programming but the style and creativity of this show caught my eye one day channel flipping. It is worth checking out and you will most likely be extremely surprised.
Fantastic
eforest774 August 2012
Gravity Falls is a new show on Disney Channel, and the only reason I heard about it was because of a friend I have on tumblr. While I haven't been a fan of Disney's recent...ventures, I have to say that Gravity Falls is absolutely fantastic.
Gravity Falls is about two kids, Mabel and Dipper Pines, who are currently living in one of those "middle of nowhere" towns called Gravity Falls with their uncle Stan, who appears to have a very mysterious past. Plenty of other mysteries lurk in Gravity Falls, and you, as the viewer, look to figure them out along with Dipper and Mabel. Along with dealing with their eccentric uncle, the kids also encounter the extremely snarky Wendy as well as a host of other quirky residents.
The tone of Gravity Falls's humour is very similar to Adventure Time - very strange and mostly situational, but I feel that a lot of the time the dialogue is much more clever and mature than that of Adventure Time's. The voice acting, animation and art style are also great, and the theme song of the show especially is fantastic.
What I enjoy most about this show, however, is its tone. This show is a total mystery - there's clues hidden everywhere. I'm completely enthralled with finding everything out before it's addressed in the show - mainly Stan's past.
This show is great, check it out!
Gravity Falls is about two kids, Mabel and Dipper Pines, who are currently living in one of those "middle of nowhere" towns called Gravity Falls with their uncle Stan, who appears to have a very mysterious past. Plenty of other mysteries lurk in Gravity Falls, and you, as the viewer, look to figure them out along with Dipper and Mabel. Along with dealing with their eccentric uncle, the kids also encounter the extremely snarky Wendy as well as a host of other quirky residents.
The tone of Gravity Falls's humour is very similar to Adventure Time - very strange and mostly situational, but I feel that a lot of the time the dialogue is much more clever and mature than that of Adventure Time's. The voice acting, animation and art style are also great, and the theme song of the show especially is fantastic.
What I enjoy most about this show, however, is its tone. This show is a total mystery - there's clues hidden everywhere. I'm completely enthralled with finding everything out before it's addressed in the show - mainly Stan's past.
This show is great, check it out!
One of my all-time favorite shows
doomedmac14 December 2019
Expertly written with so much care put to creating interesting stories.
Animany9418 December 2019
Gravity Falls is one of those shows which both kids and adults can enjoy on their respective levels, because of how the writers carefully made up a premise including both fun, excitement, charm and emotional depth.
And everything just flows perfectly and works both as one grand story and stand-alone episodes to be enjoyed by casual viewers. But you'll get so much more out of it watching it all from start to finish.
And these characters are just so likable with all their quirks and all their personality. The twins Dipper and Mabel are so good together as an insecure and kind of serious boy and a happy-go-lucky and silly girl respectively who are sent to their jerk uncle Stan to spend the summer in his tourist attraction the Mystery Shack which ends up being packed with loads of strange things happening which ends up being bigger than they could ever dream of.
And Stan is a perfect example of a likable jerk. I love him and how he gets away with it all and still learns a lot and grows so much during the time with Dipper, Mabel and the rest of the townsfolk.
This is a fantastic show with great animation, great stories, great charm and lots of fun. You won't be disappointed.
And everything just flows perfectly and works both as one grand story and stand-alone episodes to be enjoyed by casual viewers. But you'll get so much more out of it watching it all from start to finish.
And these characters are just so likable with all their quirks and all their personality. The twins Dipper and Mabel are so good together as an insecure and kind of serious boy and a happy-go-lucky and silly girl respectively who are sent to their jerk uncle Stan to spend the summer in his tourist attraction the Mystery Shack which ends up being packed with loads of strange things happening which ends up being bigger than they could ever dream of.
And Stan is a perfect example of a likable jerk. I love him and how he gets away with it all and still learns a lot and grows so much during the time with Dipper, Mabel and the rest of the townsfolk.
This is a fantastic show with great animation, great stories, great charm and lots of fun. You won't be disappointed.
Wanted more than 2 seasons!
littletaht-782493 May 2022
This show was amazing as a kid and still is Hilariously Amazing as an adult!! I wish I had more to watch of it!😋😄😄 so much imagination and humor! I would love it if they came up with more of this, just as long as they didn't ruin it with "woke"ness.
So far a Near Perfect Show
djdcartoons9122 August 2012
Disney has been making some radical changes in recent years. Back in the day Disney was always known for its films and amusement parks, its original creator driven content always seemed to take a backseat. For years the only decent original Disney channel series were Fillmore! and The Weekenders. However like I said recently Disney has been taking a bold new direction. The addition of Disney XD has led to the creation of some great shows Phineas and Ferb and particularly Chris Prynoski's new show Motor City. Their current original content mirroring the 90's shows that put creator driven series on the map. Their latest play in this new direction the creation of what so far promises to be perhaps their best creator driven series yet Gravity Falls.
Emerging from the ashes of the Marvellous Misadventures of Flapjack (another quality show, however not Disneys) where series creator Alex Hirsch served as writer and storyboard artist, Gravity Falls is perhaps the best instalment in a series of programs crafted by current Cal Arts Alumni since Adventure Time.
From a cartooning and animation standpoint the series feels refreshing. The character designs feel like some superb mixture of The Simpsons, Classic Disney animation with a bit of The Marvellous Misadventures of Flapjack thrown in. The Characters are drawn in a very fun way and they lend themselves to the quality character animation the series has produced. From a character animation standpoint the work is spirited. It is fluid and comedic exemplifying how much the character animation can be integral to the characters themselves.
Cartooning and Animation aside though I feel the true greatness of the show stems from its writing style, approach of comedy and characters. Alex Hirsch and his writing team have made a show that conjures to mind the character driven humour of the classic Simpsons with the weird and often creepy nature of a 90's kid show called Eerie Indiana. The end result is a show with unique and weird story lines and a level of humour that does what many of the 90's shows did best, transcend its target audience. This show produces jokes that will work for both kids and adults. The characters are also very likable. We have seen characters like Dipper, Mabel and Grunkle Stan before but on Gravity Falls they are crafted so believably that we can forgive that. These are not just funny characters, they are characters with defined personas, they are oddly relatable and they have even in these 9 episodes shown some semblance of character development something that is usually left out of many North American animated series.
So far this is a near perfect show its only misstep so far the episode entitled Dipper Vs. Manliness, which I won't spoil it for you, has a great concept but is too much build up and not enough pay off.
For me this is a show that makes the kid in me smile. Watching this now is like tuning into my childhood favourites (Hey Arnold, Ren and Stimpy, Courage the Cowardly Dog) only now I am old enough to appreciate it.
Emerging from the ashes of the Marvellous Misadventures of Flapjack (another quality show, however not Disneys) where series creator Alex Hirsch served as writer and storyboard artist, Gravity Falls is perhaps the best instalment in a series of programs crafted by current Cal Arts Alumni since Adventure Time.
From a cartooning and animation standpoint the series feels refreshing. The character designs feel like some superb mixture of The Simpsons, Classic Disney animation with a bit of The Marvellous Misadventures of Flapjack thrown in. The Characters are drawn in a very fun way and they lend themselves to the quality character animation the series has produced. From a character animation standpoint the work is spirited. It is fluid and comedic exemplifying how much the character animation can be integral to the characters themselves.
Cartooning and Animation aside though I feel the true greatness of the show stems from its writing style, approach of comedy and characters. Alex Hirsch and his writing team have made a show that conjures to mind the character driven humour of the classic Simpsons with the weird and often creepy nature of a 90's kid show called Eerie Indiana. The end result is a show with unique and weird story lines and a level of humour that does what many of the 90's shows did best, transcend its target audience. This show produces jokes that will work for both kids and adults. The characters are also very likable. We have seen characters like Dipper, Mabel and Grunkle Stan before but on Gravity Falls they are crafted so believably that we can forgive that. These are not just funny characters, they are characters with defined personas, they are oddly relatable and they have even in these 9 episodes shown some semblance of character development something that is usually left out of many North American animated series.
So far this is a near perfect show its only misstep so far the episode entitled Dipper Vs. Manliness, which I won't spoil it for you, has a great concept but is too much build up and not enough pay off.
For me this is a show that makes the kid in me smile. Watching this now is like tuning into my childhood favourites (Hey Arnold, Ren and Stimpy, Courage the Cowardly Dog) only now I am old enough to appreciate it.
A simple masterpiece
williamxbones30 November 2022
Warning: Spoilers
The episodic nature of the show make for a very fun time, there's not a bad episode because the premise is interesting in every episode. The writing is awesome, the comedy is enjoyable for every age and the stories are amazing because of the character writing.
The characters are the best part of the show, Dipper is an interesting protagonist, his morals are tested during the show, it's very interesting and he's a fun guy. Mabel is a very likeable character, she's weird, funny and awkward, she feel very real and relatable. Stan and Soos are great for the comedy and they are well used to make Dipper and Mabel even better characters. Wendy gives Dipper an amazing story and she's really likeable. The rest of the supporting characters are great, they make the city feel alive and seeing them coming back from episode is great since the characters are so well written than they are all at least decent.
The animation is lovely, the simplicity of it fits the show, it's fun and colorful. The character design is great, they all look exactly how they act. The locations of the show looks very good, the aesthetic of it is pretty much perfect.
The music is very good, there's the classic music and there are some original music that's very fun.
The only negatives aspect of the show are the format and the childish tone, if you can look past that, it's near perfect.
Season 1: 9.5/10 Season 2: 9.5/10.
The characters are the best part of the show, Dipper is an interesting protagonist, his morals are tested during the show, it's very interesting and he's a fun guy. Mabel is a very likeable character, she's weird, funny and awkward, she feel very real and relatable. Stan and Soos are great for the comedy and they are well used to make Dipper and Mabel even better characters. Wendy gives Dipper an amazing story and she's really likeable. The rest of the supporting characters are great, they make the city feel alive and seeing them coming back from episode is great since the characters are so well written than they are all at least decent.
The animation is lovely, the simplicity of it fits the show, it's fun and colorful. The character design is great, they all look exactly how they act. The locations of the show looks very good, the aesthetic of it is pretty much perfect.
The music is very good, there's the classic music and there are some original music that's very fun.
The only negatives aspect of the show are the format and the childish tone, if you can look past that, it's near perfect.
Season 1: 9.5/10 Season 2: 9.5/10.
okay
angelorwez9 August 2022
I didn't like it...was it bad?...maybe a little...was it terrible?...no not even a little...was it good?...maybe...
it IS a kid's show in the end...i just think it has a little too much kid elements for its own good...the voicing for the characters for example...they could have just gone for authentic real grounded...instead they settled for caricature and over-the-top kid appeal...
since it was a kid's show...i really shouldn't say much about it...although there have been better kid's shows...
it IS a kid's show in the end...i just think it has a little too much kid elements for its own good...the voicing for the characters for example...they could have just gone for authentic real grounded...instead they settled for caricature and over-the-top kid appeal...
since it was a kid's show...i really shouldn't say much about it...although there have been better kid's shows...
A kids show with intelligent writing
assassinmsu2313 June 2022
Finished the show just a while ago. At first, I was expecting a light hearted kids show to have some good times. But surprisingly, the show delivered some unique and engaging plot with clever writings, good suspense and surprisingly a bunch of very well written characters with good developments. Simply recommended for anyone who loves watching animated movies or series.
hilarious but fairly edgy show for children
dacgold20 February 2015
This show is really great, the writing is great, the characters are great, the humour is great, its the BEST written show storyline wise i have ever seen, the plot is so well thought out and so many secrets and codes to look for in every corner as part of the overall mystery. The characters are all very entertaining and funny, and the humour is very funny, quick, and breezy. The ONLY problems with the show is that it's rated tv-y7, it should really be rated p.g, if it were it would bring in the crowed it is more suited for. Some things in the show make me think "wow they got away with that?! In this day and age?!". Not only is there several jokes that would fit just as well in the simpsons, there's references to the simpsons too! Even a couple jokes that hint at pornography. The other problem is it airs on Disney. This is NOT a Disney show nor should it be treated like one if this show doesn't last long, its because its on Disney. It would be much suited to a p.g rating and on CN. Or at least if it was Disney, rated it p.g and air it late at night. Overall, a really really great well written show that is just not rated properly or on the right network. Do check it out though! Teens and adults will enjoy it.
Awesome Show!
thegodking444415 July 2013
By far my current favorite cartoon! This show is really clever, mysterious, funny, and great! When I first saw commercials for this show I didn't think it'd be special, but I was for sure wrong! Once I started watching it I just could not stop. The characters act like real people and are relatable to. When you watch Gravity Falls you feel the suspense and mystery but will be laughing as well. The only thing I think I'd want different is more of it! But it takes time to make such a quality television show. Overall Gravity Falls is in my all time top 5 favorite television shows and I hope they continue making many more episodes soon.
Best new Disney show!!
julianand775017 July 2012
Gravity Falls is set in a town in the middle of nowhere, focusing on Dipper and Mabel, solving the mysteries of Gravity Falls.
One of the things that I find really amazing about this show is the music. It's great, eerie, and enhances the mood of the scene.
The characters are all great, and are all very likable and funny. The dynamics between Dipper and Mabel is one of the best parts of the show if you ask me. The way they interact with each other is the way you would think a brother and sister would act towards each other.
Animation wise, it is pretty well animated. The intro's animation is impressive but the actual show isn't as amazing but still good.
The show has a eerie atmosphere, but still has the heart of most of Disney shows.
So overall, The show is great. The characters, eerie atmosphere, and charm make it a enjoyable watch for kids and adults.
One of the things that I find really amazing about this show is the music. It's great, eerie, and enhances the mood of the scene.
The characters are all great, and are all very likable and funny. The dynamics between Dipper and Mabel is one of the best parts of the show if you ask me. The way they interact with each other is the way you would think a brother and sister would act towards each other.
Animation wise, it is pretty well animated. The intro's animation is impressive but the actual show isn't as amazing but still good.
The show has a eerie atmosphere, but still has the heart of most of Disney shows.
So overall, The show is great. The characters, eerie atmosphere, and charm make it a enjoyable watch for kids and adults.
Best Cartoon Show Ever
shaylarowlings18 June 2022
Gravity Falls is the story of twins Dipper and Mabel who have been sent to Gravity Falls to spend the summer with their "Grunkle" Stan. Stan runs The Mystery Shack, one of those side-of-the-road places you see on a road trip that promises crazy sights like bottomless pits and other eye-popping wonders. The thing is that Gravity Falls really is the center of a lot of mysterious, supernatural activity, which Dipper and Mabel get to investigate in every hysterical episode. It is a beautiful blend of old fashioned storytelling about the Pines kids and their array of friends and co-workers as they investigate with a modern sense of humor. It works for all ages, never overplaying its themes but incorporating them into the storytelling. But taking a deeper look into the show, it is quickly apparent that the series is far more mysterious and detail-orientated than previously thought. Even though the story is presented through animation, Gravity Falls is certainly among one of the most in-depth mystery television shows because of the creator's extensive understanding of the plot and characters and even more the numerous secret and codes to decipher. The show is consistently, laugh-out-loud funny every week, with a new adventure or conflict ready for our heroes to overcome. But the show never loses sight of the long-game: The big overarching story of mystery and dark magic that lurks just beneath the surface.
SUCH A MASTERPIECE!!!
isaacchiadb16 August 2022
Gravity falls is full of likeable characters interesting plots and eye catching animation and I never get bored watching it over again despite being only 2 seasons! I hope this show will be revived with a season 3 soon.
Best show. Beautiful writing.
fscjnw30 July 2022
We watch this show daily. The story line is just so good. The mystery of who wrote the journals, and watching the twins investigate gravity falls. It's so captivating. Also we can't forget how much grunkle Stan is a true freaking hero.
I watched the first 4 episodes of this show and had 3 beautiful dreams within the same sleep
aserdcerebral28 June 2022
The first dream was about a communal camaraderie. The context was faded from memory when I woke up, but the pleasantry and feeling of cohesion persisted as I rose from bed when my 90 minute alarm went off.
The second dream was about an omniscient overview of a happy couple, which might have been myself and a past or future partner. I watched them meet and with their initial locking of eyes formed an empathy so deep, clean and evergreen that they never knew conflict in the love that lasted them the rest of their lives.
The third dream was.. that which my 90 minute alarm interrupted, so most of it evaporated with the shock of the sudden journey out of that oneiric utopia, but the calming pleasantness persisted.
The show itself, so far, isn't about any of those subjects. But it is, at least in the Mabel character, about giving strangers as much chance to be good human beings as you permit yourself, and to withhold judgment as long as can be.
I shan't attempt to intellectualize it any more than that.
Now I'm not a particularly, or let's be honest, a measurably at all, passive person. My social style mostly consists of telling people what to do, because they trust that I do know. It's worked for me since I was a little prodigy, and I'm not about to change it up now.
Consequently, 100% of my dreams are about control; the happy 90% where I have it in totality. The uncomfortable 8% where I share it. And the rest; nightmares.
This sort of happy-go-lucky, passive dream was an unprecedented experience, and the most any work has ever communicated its message, I should hope, with purity and indelible truth to me.
In technical terms, I shall say Gravity Falls uses its "camera" as a storytelling tool more precisely than most, if not all other comedy and animated shows; short decisive pans/tilts define the punchline. Telephoto compression underlines the humor beneath the frenetic action of a chase sequence, and such like.
It's a very frame-by-frame kind of show, meaning each cut brings new meaning and each shot is consciously designed from the mise-en-scene (in this case, shapes, sizes, color and positioning choices) to the light to lensing choice, to precisely elicit a calibrated emotional response.
It's a most perfectly-made work of art.
But what matters even more is the beauty beneath and between the frames.
As I haven't seen the whole thing yet, and parsed its overall meaning, I rate it 9/10.
The second dream was about an omniscient overview of a happy couple, which might have been myself and a past or future partner. I watched them meet and with their initial locking of eyes formed an empathy so deep, clean and evergreen that they never knew conflict in the love that lasted them the rest of their lives.
The third dream was.. that which my 90 minute alarm interrupted, so most of it evaporated with the shock of the sudden journey out of that oneiric utopia, but the calming pleasantness persisted.
The show itself, so far, isn't about any of those subjects. But it is, at least in the Mabel character, about giving strangers as much chance to be good human beings as you permit yourself, and to withhold judgment as long as can be.
I shan't attempt to intellectualize it any more than that.
Now I'm not a particularly, or let's be honest, a measurably at all, passive person. My social style mostly consists of telling people what to do, because they trust that I do know. It's worked for me since I was a little prodigy, and I'm not about to change it up now.
Consequently, 100% of my dreams are about control; the happy 90% where I have it in totality. The uncomfortable 8% where I share it. And the rest; nightmares.
This sort of happy-go-lucky, passive dream was an unprecedented experience, and the most any work has ever communicated its message, I should hope, with purity and indelible truth to me.
In technical terms, I shall say Gravity Falls uses its "camera" as a storytelling tool more precisely than most, if not all other comedy and animated shows; short decisive pans/tilts define the punchline. Telephoto compression underlines the humor beneath the frenetic action of a chase sequence, and such like.
It's a very frame-by-frame kind of show, meaning each cut brings new meaning and each shot is consciously designed from the mise-en-scene (in this case, shapes, sizes, color and positioning choices) to the light to lensing choice, to precisely elicit a calibrated emotional response.
It's a most perfectly-made work of art.
But what matters even more is the beauty beneath and between the frames.
As I haven't seen the whole thing yet, and parsed its overall meaning, I rate it 9/10.
The Best Animation I've Seen In A Long Time
ernstthomas1823 April 2013
Gravity Falls. At first glance, you might think, oh, another children's show, however, it is much more than that. This TV show will be great for any child, but has comedy that will fly over their heads, and be hilarious to you. This show doesn't need to be nasty to be funny like other TV shows, which make it inappropriate for children. This show is hilarious, without being inappropriate. It is a family show that is entertaining for all people. The storyline is actually more complex than simplistic cartoons of the past. I would recommend this title to a person of all ages. I promise it will be funny for you, no matter whatever age you are.
An excellent title.
Summary "This simplistically brilliant show is humorous yet applicable to an omniscient demographic, that features interesting story lines, surprisingly good animation, and great voice acting.".
An excellent title.
Summary "This simplistically brilliant show is humorous yet applicable to an omniscient demographic, that features interesting story lines, surprisingly good animation, and great voice acting.".
It has one saving grace
ACollegeStudent3 November 2022
Warning: Spoilers
Rating: 6.9
Favorite Episode: A Tale of Two Stans
There was a well-executed backstory to Gravity falls lore that saves this show: (the reveal of Stanford and the portal's origins). However, the show is just irritatingly childish despite being a children's show with dark undertones. Subjectively most of the dialogue from characters like Mabel and Soos is juvenile obnoxious humor. The first half is mostly the Pines children learning life lessons due to supernatural events. The real story doesn't begin until season 2. The amount of irrelevant and cringe plot threads like having to watch 12-year-old girls dating adventures (zombie guy, Mermando, several times, Gideon, etc..), and the stupidest man alive (pioneer day episode) detract from the great episodes like the Tale of Two Stans; which add nuance and depth to the narrative. Mabel's character is problematic because at the expense of Dipper's wishes she always gets what she wants and it's played off as her being a "pure person": (ex Dipper's dream of becoming Stanford's apprentice was derailed by Mabel because she didn't want to grow up. Even though Mabel was quick to replace Dipper in her dreamscape during Wierdmaggedon, only for Dipper to throw away his dream to appease Mabel's. It's selfish and one-sided). The ending was mostly solid despite the copout of Stan regaining his memories even though they were completely wiped. There are too many cons to call this a great watch, just because it's a comedy doesn't mean it has to be kiddie.
Favorite Episode: A Tale of Two Stans
There was a well-executed backstory to Gravity falls lore that saves this show: (the reveal of Stanford and the portal's origins). However, the show is just irritatingly childish despite being a children's show with dark undertones. Subjectively most of the dialogue from characters like Mabel and Soos is juvenile obnoxious humor. The first half is mostly the Pines children learning life lessons due to supernatural events. The real story doesn't begin until season 2. The amount of irrelevant and cringe plot threads like having to watch 12-year-old girls dating adventures (zombie guy, Mermando, several times, Gideon, etc..), and the stupidest man alive (pioneer day episode) detract from the great episodes like the Tale of Two Stans; which add nuance and depth to the narrative. Mabel's character is problematic because at the expense of Dipper's wishes she always gets what she wants and it's played off as her being a "pure person": (ex Dipper's dream of becoming Stanford's apprentice was derailed by Mabel because she didn't want to grow up. Even though Mabel was quick to replace Dipper in her dreamscape during Wierdmaggedon, only for Dipper to throw away his dream to appease Mabel's. It's selfish and one-sided). The ending was mostly solid despite the copout of Stan regaining his memories even though they were completely wiped. There are too many cons to call this a great watch, just because it's a comedy doesn't mean it has to be kiddie.
Too scary for the "below-5" demo, too lame and childish for the "above-5"s. Funny sometimes.
yavermbizi9 April 2022
My expectations for "Gravity Falls" were rather misplaced - I expected a continuous adventure story arc with some comedy, "dark-for-children" aesthetics and adult appeal. In the end, "GF" attempts to be all these things and more, but fails at most of them - other than at comedy, that one's good most of the time. My main issue is how childish it is - of course, it's a children's cartoon, I don't exactly expect bare boobies and blood splatter (although it kind of has the latter on occasion, so maybe I should!), but I remember the sort of kid I was at 6, and I would've been facepalming just as hard at the cringy morals as I do now. It has a moral in every episode, and these are so surface-level, aimed-at-toddlers, that it completely discombobulates you when it has some horror elements, which do go pretty hard for a kids' show (of course, nearly every situation magically resolves itself by each episode's end). But wait - many of these morals are about... dating?.. And teenage relationships?.. Who IS the target audience for this thing?! What teenager will suffer through an episode of "friends good actually" to get to the next one's "be the best version of yourself to get the chick", which in itself is a lame moral?! I found some morals morally suspect as well, but your mileage may vary.
The show boasts some great characters (Wendy, Bill Cipher), some meh ones (even the great Kristen Schaal of "Flight of the Conchords" fame can't always make the sugar/coffee overdose that is the character of Mabel palatable), and some legitimately disgusting ones (Grenda, the cops). Some of the visual designs and setpieces are also great (Bill Cipher, the series' supposed antagonist, especially packs some stylistic punch), and really ask to be appropriated by a better series. The plots are usually very dumb and hole-y. The first season is more serialised as our twins muck about the town, stumbling into supernatural mysteries and lame life morals; the second is slightly less serialised, as Bill Cipher appears for more than 1 episode and actually does some antagonising for a spell. However, I appreciate the series' comedy the most and don't appreciate its lame overcontrived adventures or boring-to-tears life lessons. As such, I like S1 more. However, I don't recommend watching either - there surely are better cartoons to pass the time.
My ratings by season: S1: 3 S2: 2.
The show boasts some great characters (Wendy, Bill Cipher), some meh ones (even the great Kristen Schaal of "Flight of the Conchords" fame can't always make the sugar/coffee overdose that is the character of Mabel palatable), and some legitimately disgusting ones (Grenda, the cops). Some of the visual designs and setpieces are also great (Bill Cipher, the series' supposed antagonist, especially packs some stylistic punch), and really ask to be appropriated by a better series. The plots are usually very dumb and hole-y. The first season is more serialised as our twins muck about the town, stumbling into supernatural mysteries and lame life morals; the second is slightly less serialised, as Bill Cipher appears for more than 1 episode and actually does some antagonising for a spell. However, I appreciate the series' comedy the most and don't appreciate its lame overcontrived adventures or boring-to-tears life lessons. As such, I like S1 more. However, I don't recommend watching either - there surely are better cartoons to pass the time.
My ratings by season: S1: 3 S2: 2.
I want MORE!!
berg-7453225 January 2020
Few kids shows can truly be enjoyed by adults and for obvious reasons. This show is incredible it's not dumbed down. The stories are entertaining the writing is excellent. If you have kids and struggle to find things that are entertaining for you without sex, language and story lines that you don't need to keep your finger on mute or the last channel key this easily fits the bill. I can't believe that this came and went before I was aware of it. It's truly a shame that it's only about 50 episodes and I have absolutely no doubt this will be fondly remembered and will be on lists of best shows forever.
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